The leading trade mark practitioners from around the globe have once again been exclusively revealed with the publication of the 2019 edition of the WTR 1000. We are proud to announce that AJ Park retains its position as a top-tier firm in this publication, having again received a gold ranking.
The WTR 1000 is the only definitive guide exclusively dedicated to identifying the world’s leading trade mark legal services providers. Through an extensive research process conducted by a team of highly qualified, full-time analysts, the publication recognises the leading trade mark law firms and individuals in over 80 global jurisdictions. As well as illustrating the depth of expertise available to brand owners as they seek to protect their brands, the WTR 1000 serves as an essential tool for locating the best trade mark partners worldwide.
The results are presented in bands—gold, silver and bronze—to reflect the depth of expertise, market presence, and the level of work on which firms are typically instructed. Receiving a gold band ranking is being identified as the best of the best. Firms who feature in the gold band are those that attract the most positive comments from sources and who have an edge over their competitors in terms of reputation.
The 2019 edition of the WTR 1000 has high praise for AJ Park:
A long-established gold standard-setter when it comes to intellectual property, AJ Park maintains the biggest trade mark practice in New Zealand. Proficient at processing large volumes of work, it also consistently provides well-considered, timely and pragmatic strategic counsel. A trailblazer throughout its illustrious 125-year history, AJ Park was acquired by IPH Limited Group in late 2017 to become the country’s first IP outfit to join a holding company.
Six AJ Park specialists have been highlighted as leading trade mark professionals.
Managing director, Damian Broadley, is described as embodying many of the firm’s virtues. ‘A revered trade mark virtuoso, he is a great first port of call for top-level strategic advice.’
John Hackett is identified as ‘another popular choice among Kiwi heavy-hitters—Manuka Health New Zealand and ZESPRI being two examples—for a holistic approach to brand protection’.
Colleen Cavanagh, who ‘nurtures brands with care and attention’, is also quoted as having ‘vast experience’ and ‘easy to draw inspiration from’.
Lynell Tuffery Huria is recognised for ‘overseeing much of the ensemble’s “extensive presence in the Pacific Islands”’ and is quoted as displaying ‘unsurpassed responsiveness and attention to detail. With a large base of South Pacific clients and IP office contacts, Huria has carved out a niche as the country’s foremost authority on Maori law and cultural icon protection’.
Senior associate, Jonathan Aumonier-Ward, is highlighted for his work on prosecution and contentious issues. ‘Technology and blue-chip clients from Australia, New Zealand and the United States flock to the “diligent” Jonathan Aumonier-Ward for “practical and no-nonsense” guidance. “Time differences can be difficult to overcome, but you never notice that when you work with Jonathan—he always stays in direct contact”.
Last, but not least, Kim McLeod is noted as a ‘star litigator’ who is ‘always on hand to tackle the knottiest of contentious conundrums’.
We are always very proud to be recognised in this prestigious guide as a world-class trade mark firm.
The WTR 1000 was published in January 2019, with an online edition available via www.worldtrademarkreview.com/directories/wtr1000.
